Safest Occupations

Nuclear energy

Newly elected U.S. President Barack Obama and current British Prime Minister Gordon Brown have both stated that they intend to explore nuclear energy as a means of reducing carbon emissions in their respective nations. Brown also asserted that his plan to reinstate nuclear power plants would help reduce unemployment. As other countries adopt similar stances, professions such as nuclear engineers, maintenance technicians and plant operators are likely to increase in demand over the next few years, placing them among the safest occupations to have during these trying times. However, it isn’t just about prospective employment — nuclear power plants already supply 20% of the United States’ electricity. With talks of an impending global energy crisis, chances are this number won’t go down anytime soon.

Oil and gas

The promise of nuclear energy and other clean technologies aside, the oil and gas sector remains particularly resilient regardless of the current economic climate. Though oil prices have dropped recently, it’s worth noting that they’re still several times higher than they were just 10 years ago. That’s because the entire world relies on oil and gas for transportation, making the jobs of drillers, well-site geologists and petroleum engineers some of the safest occupations in terms of employment. Furthermore, according to the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, roughly 80% of the industry’s labor force will reach retirement age in the next decade. This means positions may open gradually over the next few years.

working safe

Though these six industries offer some of the safest occupations in 2009, keep in mind that no job is ever guaranteed. Any company can suffer cutbacks in such harsh economic times — that’s why it’s important you pad your savings and maximize your current position no matter what industry you work in. After all, the only way to truly be safe is to prepare for any eventuality.